Mike Phillips always ready to answer Gilas call for SEA Games
At A Glance
- "But I'm really praying, whatever God has planned. If it's God's will for me to hopefully have an opportunity to try out and be a part of the national team, of course," said Phillips.
La Salle's Mike Phillips (UAAP Media)
Despite the tremendous pressure on his shoulders, De La Salle big man Mike Phillips remains composed and positive that the Green Archers could reclaim the UAAP throne once more.
With a daunting task at hand and several reports saying he might be recruited for Gilas Pilipinas in the upcoming 33rd Southeast Asian Games, the gentle giant knew patience should come handy as he waits for the call.
“But I'm really praying, whatever God has planned. If it's God's will for me to hopefully have an opportunity to try out and be a part of the national team, of course,” said Phillips.
But the one-time UAAP champion also reminded himself of his collegiate mission with La Salle, which is coming from several bridesmaid finishes during the off-season and from last year’s finals.
“I really love to, I'm gonna give everything I can. But of course, right now, it's really just about staying in the moment, staying in the present moment,” he added.
The high-flying 6-foot-8 Phillips recalled his time as Gilas member in the 2023 Cambodia edition where the Philippines reclaimed the gold medal in the 5-on-5 men’s basketball event.
“Because playing for the national team is just something that, I don't know, I can't put into words. It's just such an amazing feeling and I'm still sort of on that high from that SEA Games,” Phillips continued.
“I still have my medal, it's right on my cabinet and I still talk to a lot of the guys that I was with in the SEA Games,” he added.
Phillips along with Mason Amos and Jacob Cortez are expected to anchor the Green Archers in Season 88 as they open their campaign this Saturday, Sept. 20, against Adamson.